Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has called for wider and more carefully designed use of modern technology in the judicial system, saying digital tools must improve access to justice and court efficiency without displacing human judgment. He was speaking at the inauguration of the Jharkhand High Court data centre, where a set of new digital services for the High Court and civil courts was also launched.
Justice Kant said the success of technology in the judiciary should not be judged by the sophistication of the systems installed. Instead, it should be measured by the practical difference these systems make to litigants, advocates, judges and citizens. This places the focus on whether people can obtain information more easily, complete routine court-related processes with fewer difficulties and receive more reliable administrative support.
New digital services launched
The inauguration was accompanied by the launch of the High Court's revamped website, an online application for certified copies in Jharkhand's civil courts, a personalised cause list and speech-to-text software. A cause list is the schedule of cases listed before a court. Making it personalised can help users view information relevant to their cases, while speech-to-text technology converts spoken words into written text and can support documentation.
| Initiative | Intended administrative role |
|---|---|
| High Court website | Provide updated digital access to court information |
| Online certified-copy application | Enable applications for certified copies through an online process |
| Personalised cause list | Present case-list information relevant to individual users |
| Speech-to-text software | Convert spoken proceedings or material into written text |
Justice Kant said modern courts increasingly depend on digital records, electronic communication and timely access to information. Reliable digital infrastructure can therefore support the day-to-day functioning of courts, particularly in areas such as record management and communication. However, the effectiveness of these systems will depend on their reliability and on whether users can access and operate them without facing new administrative or technical obstacles.
“Judicial infrastructure, therefore, must evolve to meet these requirements and ensure greater reliability and efficiency in the delivery of justice,”
Security and continuity remain central
The Chief Justice also stressed that digital expansion must be accompanied by strong cybersecurity safeguards. Judicial records can contain sensitive personal and legal information, making protection against unauthorised access, loss and disruption a core requirement. He called for reliable backup arrangements, regular testing of systems and adequately trained technical personnel.
These safeguards are important because a digital court system is not limited to a website or an online form. It also includes the storage, transmission and retrieval of court records. If such systems are unavailable, inaccurate or compromised, the impact can extend beyond inconvenience and affect the ability of litigants, lawyers and judges to obtain necessary information. Regular testing and backup arrangements are intended to strengthen continuity, while trained personnel are needed to identify and address technical problems.
AI to assist, not decide
Justice Kant said technology and artificial intelligence may assist with legal research, documentation and information management. Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that usually require human analysis, such as processing information or identifying patterns. In the judicial context, such tools may support administrative and research work, but they cannot assume the responsibility of deciding disputes.
He made clear that judges must continue to hear parties fairly, assess evidence and decide cases according to the law. The warning is significant as courts adopt more digital tools: faster processing or automated assistance cannot substitute for the reasoning, accountability and fairness expected from judicial decision-making. Justice Kant said confidentiality, accuracy, accountability and human oversight must remain central to every technology initiative in the judiciary.
Digital access must not become a new barrier
The CJI also cautioned against digitalisation creating difficulties for people who lack digital literacy, dependable internet connectivity or the ability to navigate online platforms. This places an important limit on a technology-first approach. Online applications and electronic information can make procedures more convenient for some users, but they may be difficult to use for others unless courts also account for differing levels of access and familiarity.
The broader message from the inauguration is that court modernisation must combine useful digital services with dependable infrastructure, security and human support. Technology can help courts organise information and make routine processes more accessible, but its value will ultimately be judged by whether it strengthens the public's ability to engage with the justice system while preserving judicial independence, fairness and human responsibility.
